Van Persie

Former Arsenal forward Robin van Persie has spoken candidly about the prospect of working at his old club, admitting that a return to the Gunners seems unlikely due to the circumstances of his controversial move to Manchester United in 2012. In an interview with Sportcast (via @Sport_Witness), the Dutchman reflected on his career and his current role in football. “I don’t expect to work at Arsenal. I think that is closed, because of my switch to Manchester United,” Van Persie admitted. “You never know in football, but that is my assessment. It is still sensitive for them, not for me — it is especially sensitive for the Arsenal fans.” Van Persie’s switch to United remains a sore point for many Arsenal supporters, as he left the North London club after eight years to join one of their fiercest rivals. His successful stint at United, which included winning the Premier League title in his first season, further alienated him from sections of the Arsenal fanbase. Now coaching at SC Heerenveen in the Netherlands, Van Persie seems content with his current role and emphasized the importance of living in the moment. “I have learned that planning so far ahead makes no sense at all. I mainly live in the here and now,” he said. “I am very proud to be the coach of Heerenveen and I really enjoy it here. I feel very welcome within the club and among the fans. I also think that is important.” While a reunion with Arsenal appears unlikely, Van Persie’s comments suggest he harbors no ill will toward his former club. Instead, he is focused on his coaching career and building strong relationships at Heerenveen.

Van Persie

Van Persie speaks out on working again at Arsenal after bitter departure